Mazda CX-5 vs Honda CR-V
Mazda CX-5
All-new 2026 compact crossover with Google built-in technology and refreshed design.
Tech-savvy buyers seeking latest connectivity and modern design with standard AWD
Honda CR-V
Proven 2026 compact crossover with excellent fuel efficiency and practicality.
Practical buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, cargo space, and proven reliability over cutting-edge technology
Short Answer
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 delivers a refreshed design with Google built-in technology and a 187-hp engine, while the 2026 Honda CR-V excels in fuel efficiency (29 mpg combined) and cargo space. Both are competitive compact crossovers, with choice depending on tech preferences versus practical efficiency.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedThe 2026 Mazda CX-5 is the better choice for tech-forward buyers who value modern infotainment and updated design language, offering Google built-in connectivity as standard. The Honda CR-V remains the practical choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and cargo capacity at a competitive value. Both vehicles are excellent compact crossovers; select based on whether technology innovation or efficiency matters more.
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Choose Mazda CX-5 if
Tech-savvy buyers seeking latest connectivity and modern design with standard AWD
Choose Honda CR-V if
Practical buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, cargo space, and proven reliability over cutting-edge technology
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Key Differences at a Glance
Key Facts & Figures
| Metric | Mazda CX-5 | Honda CR-V | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower(hp) | 250 hp | — | — |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined)(MPG) | 25 MPG | — | — |
| Infotainment Display(inches) | 15.6-inch Touchscreen | — | — |
| Starting Price(USD) | $33,500 | $30,920 | +8% |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 38.8 in (Increased 2026) | 41.0 | -5% |
| Cargo Capacity(cu ft) | 76.5 cu ft | — | — |
| Engine Horsepower(hp) | 187 hp | Not specified | — |
| Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 12.9-inch | Standard | — |
| Combined Fuel Economy (Best)(MPG) | 32 MPG | 32 MPG | — |
| Cargo Volume Behind 2nd Row(cubic feet) | 39.3 | 39.3 | — |
| Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 9-inch HD | 9-inch HD | — |
| Total Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 76.5 | 76.5 | — |
| Engine Power (Standard Gas)(hp) | 190 hp | 190 hp | — |
| Cargo Space (Seats Down)(cubic feet) | CR-V | CR-V | — |
| Cargo Space (Seats Up)(cubic feet) | CR-V | CR-V | — |
| Hybrid AWD Horsepower(hp) | CR-V | CR-V | — |
| Starting Price(USD) | CR-V | CR-V | — |
All figures sourced from publicly available data. Last updated Jun 2026.
Key Differences
Mazda CX-5
Complete redesign with 4.5-inch length increase🏆
Honda CR-V
Minor tweaks and refinements
Mazda CX-5
26 mpg
Honda CR-V
29 mpg🏆
Mazda CX-5
187 hp SKYACTIV-G 2.5L
Honda CR-V
Not specified
Mazda CX-5
12.9-inch Google Built-in (1 year complimentary)🏆
Honda CR-V
Standard features
Mazda CX-5
Not specified
Honda CR-V
39 cubic feet🏆
Mazda CX-5
Standard i-ACTIV AWD🏆
Honda CR-V
Available
Mazda CX-5
Advanced suite included
Honda CR-V
Honda Sensing with CMBS, FCW, LDW, RDM
Mazda CX-5
All-new generation🏆
Honda CR-V
Carryover generation
Full Comparison
| Attribute |  Mazda CX-5 |  Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder | — |
| Horsepower(hp) | 250 hp | — |
| Hybrid Powertrain Availability(models) | CR-V | — |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined)(MPG) | 25 MPG | — |
| Infotainment Display(inches) | 15.6-inch Touchscreen | — |
| Google Built-in Integration | Yes (1 year complimentary) | No |
| Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 9-inch HD | — |
| Steering Feel | Sharp & Responsive | — |
| AWD System | i-Activ AWD | — |
| Warranty Coverage(years) | 3yr/36k Basic | — |
| Starting Price(USD) | $33,500 | $30,920 |
| Warranty (Basic)(years) | 3 years/36k miles | — |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 38.8 in (Increased 2026) | 41.0 |
| Cargo Volume Behind 2nd Row(cubic feet) | 39.3 | — |
| Total Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 76.5 | — |
| Cargo Capacity(cu ft) | 76.5 cu ft | — |
| Interior Design Quality | Premium Materials & Refinement | — |
| Design Innovation | Bold Kodo Evolution | — |
| Combined Fuel Economy(mpg) | 26 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Engine Horsepower(hp) | 187 hp | Not specified |
| Combined Fuel Economy (Best)(MPG) | 32 MPG | — |
| Engine Power (Standard Gas)(hp) | 190 hp | — |
| Hybrid AWD Horsepower(hp) | CR-V | — |
| Cargo Space (Behind 2nd Row)(cubic feet) | Not specified | 39 cubic feet |
| Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 12.9-inch | Standard |
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard i-ACTIV AWD | Available |
| Powertrain Options | Gas, Turbocharged Gas | — |
| All-Wheel Drive Option | CR-V | — |
| Generation Status | All-new 2026 generation | Refreshed carryover generation |
| Safety Suite | Advanced driver assistance features | Honda Sensing with multiple systems |
| Safety Rating (NHTSA)(stars) | 5-star overall | — |
| Safety Technology Suite | CR-V | — |
| AWD Type | Real Time AWD | — |
| Class Ranking | Excellent (7.5/10 Edmunds) | — |
| Cargo Space (Seats Down)(cubic feet) | CR-V | — |
| Cargo Space (Seats Up)(cubic feet) | CR-V | — |
| Maximum Towing Capacity(lbs) | CR-V | — |
| Starting Price(USD) | CR-V | — |
Mazda CX-5Honda CR-VVisual Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of numeric attributes
Pros & Cons
Mazda CX-5
Pros
- Complete redesign with modern styling
- Google Built-in infotainment standard (1 year free)
- Standard i-ACTIV AWD included
- 187 hp engine with SKYACTIV-G technology
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible
- Advanced driver assistance features
- Increased length for more interior space
Cons
- Lower fuel economy (26 mpg vs 29 mpg)
- Smaller cargo space than CR-V
- Premium pricing for new generation
Honda CR-V
Pros
- Superior fuel economy at 29 mpg combined
- More cargo space (39 cubic feet)
- Comprehensive Honda Sensing safety suite
- Proven reliability and resale value
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Strong value proposition
Cons
- Minor design updates only
- No Google built-in integration
- Standard infotainment less advanced
- Outgoing generation technology
Frequently Asked Questions
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is a completely redesigned model with Google Built-in technology, larger dimensions, and standard AWD, while the Honda CR-V is a refined carryover generation focused on proven efficiency and practicality. Choose CX-5 for modern tech or CR-V for fuel economy and cargo space.
Resources & Learn More
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